Ecclesiastical Museum Of Agia Triada (Tzagkarolon Monastery)

  Overview:

Agia Triada Monastery, also known as the Monastery of Agia Triada Tzagkarolon, is a remarkable Greek Orthodox monastery located in the Akrotiri peninsula within the Chania regional unit of Crete, Greece. This monastery, which translates to “Holy Trinity” in English, stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region.

History:

This splendid monastery was constructed during the 17th century by two brothers from the Venetian Zangaroli family. It was built on the grounds of an existing church, making it a site of both historical and architectural significance. Over the centuries, it has played various roles, including that of a theological school in the 19th century and a seminary in 1892. The monastery has faced challenges, including conflicts with the Turks, but has persevered as a symbol of faith and resilience.

Architecture:

The architectural design of Agia Triada Monastery is a testament to the Byzantine cruciform style. The main church features three majestic domes, with two smaller domed chapels, one dedicated to the Life-Giving Spring (Zoodochos Pigi) and the other to Saint John the Theologian. At the front of the main aisle, there is a narthex, positioned at right angles to the main aisle, adding a unique dimension to the structure. The facade of the church is adorned with double columns showcasing a blend of Ionian and Corinthian styles, and it proudly displays a Greek inscription dating back to 1631. The monastery’s cellar door dates to 1613, while the belfry was erected in 1864.

Museum:

Tzagkarolon Monastery is home to a library housing a collection of rare books and a museum displaying an impressive assortment of icons and codices. Among its invaluable exhibits, you can find a portable icon of St. John the Theologian dating to around 1500, “The Last Judgment” by Emmanuel Skordiles from the 17th century, “St. John the Precursor” from 1846, “The Tree of Jesse” from 1853, “The Hospitality of Abraham” and “The Descent into Hades” from 1855, “The Story of Beauteous Joseph” from 1858, and a manuscript on a parchment scroll containing the mass of St. Basil. In the collection of the museum, the visitor can see elements that remained from the holocaust of the Abbey in 1821, icons, ecclesiastical utensils, crosses, vestments, manuscript documents, and books (among them gospels from the period 1568-1758).

Visiting this monastery is not only an opportunity to explore the architectural beauty of the complex but also a chance to delve into the rich history and culture of Crete. Don’t miss the chance to experience the tranquility and spirituality that Agia Triada Monastery offers to its visitors.

  Address:

Agias Triadas Tzagkarolon Monastery

 Location:

Akrotiri, Chania

  Telephone:

(+30) 2821063572

  Fax:

(+30) 2821063551

  E-mail:

[email protected]

 Url:

N/A

  Operating Period:

JAN-DEC

  Operating Days & Hours:

APR-OCT:
MON-SUN: From sunrise till sunset

All other months only by appointment

  Admission Fee:

• General admission: Full: €3, Reduced: €1.5

• Children up to 16 years old FREE

  Notes:

• Suitable for wheelchairs
• Parking area
• Small shop selling books, icons, etc.

* The above information, is subject to change without prior notification from the institution. In any case, visitcrete.com has no responsibility for any occurred changes.